A letter to Miranda

Dear Miranda,
It is obvious that you are struggling to find yourself and your sense of belonging. Having an abortion can be an emotionally taxing experience, and it can leave one feeling lost and lonely. One thing is for sure however. Self-loathing and depression will be no way to deal with your past. Yes, you wanted to have the baby, as did Michaelis, and your parents did not, but you should not allow yourself to become influenced by others beliefs. Be strong, stand up for yourself and what you believe in, and through that you will be able to gain the confidence to become a stronger person and find a sense of belonging. I think the one opportunity you had to be happy with yourself was when Michaelis and you were planning on getting married, and having the child. Michaelis really offered you an opportunity to find your place and be somebody. Now, at college, you seem lost and in an attempt to give your life some meaning. You should attempt to either re-connect with the people that have taken your life this far, and positively affected it, such as Michaelis, and avoid people like Brian. Attempt to give your life some meaning and you will be a more confidant person who truly feels loved and a sense of belonging

"Miranda Over the Valley" Map

"Miranda Over the Valley": Interpretive Questions

1. If Miranda seemed so sure of herself being able to have the baby, why was she so easily swayed by the advice of her parents to have an abortion?

2. Was the overall impact of Michaelis on Miranda’s life a positive one? Why did she leave him if she loved him and he supported her?

3. Does Miranda disapprove of Holly or envy her?

4. Do you agree or disagree with the abortion?

5. In a situation where a child makes a mistake, what should the role of the parents be? Should they support their son/daughter in whatever choices they make, or should they tell him/her what path to choose? At what point in a child’s life should a parent change from a teacher to a friend? If you were the mom or dad of Miranda, how would you handle the news that she was pregnant at 18?

6. How does Miranda’s abortion end up isolating her from her family and friends?

7. Do you think Miranda can ever truly be happy after this incident? How does Dubus want us to end this story?

8. Is there a distinct enemy or hero in this story? If so, who falls under what category?

9. What is a common flaw between Miranda and other Dubus characters like Louise (the fat girl) and Rose?

10. Do you think the perspective Dubus gave in this story was adequate in revealing how all the main characters were affected by its main events?